Top 27 Ben Stiller Movies To Watch

Directed by Noah Baumbach, The Meyerowitz Stories assembles a powerhouse ensemble featuring Adam Sandler, Dustin Hoffman, Emma Thompson, Elizabeth Marvel, and Ben Stiller in standout roles.

This poignant, darkly comic drama centers on a group of adult siblings navigating the complexities of family dysfunction, as they confront the dominating legacy of their father—an eccentric, retired professor and sculptor.

The film debuted at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival, earning both the Palm Dog award and a four-minute standing ovation while competing for the prestigious Palme d'Or.

Released simultaneously on Netflix and in select theaters, The Meyerowitz Stories garnered widespread critical praise, celebrated for its memorable performances and deeply authentic storytelling.

"Flirting with Disaster" is a sharp-witted road trip black comedy crafted by acclaimed writer-director David O. Russell. Boasting an impressive ensemble cast—including Ben Stiller, Patricia Arquette, George Segal, Téa Leoni, Alan Alda, Lily Tomlin, Mary Tyler Moore, and Richard Jenkins—the film skillfully blends caustic humor with genuine heart.

The plot centers on Mel Coplin, a neurotic new father played by Ben Stiller, who embarks on a wild cross-country journey to track down his biological parents. Joined by his wife (Arquette) and an unpredictable adoption agency caseworker (Leoni), Mel’s quest quickly devolves into a string of unpredictable mishaps and encounters with outlandishly eccentric characters.

Praised for its sharp dialogue and clever plotting, "Flirting with Disaster" earned recognition at the 1996 Cannes Film Festival, where it was screened as a Special Screening outside the main competition, cementing its status as a standout comedy of the decade.

Wes Anderson's The Royal Tenenbaums tells the story of an eccentric, dysfunctional family of former child prodigies, each struggling to navigate adulthood and confront personal challenges.

The film boasts a remarkable ensemble cast, featuring Luke Wilson, Gwyneth Paltrow, Anjelica Huston, Bill Murray, Danny Glover, and Gene Hackman. Ben Stiller delivers a standout performance as Chas Tenenbaum, a sharp businessman coping with the loss of his wife while raising his children on his own.

This film is highly rewatchable, thanks to its unique characters and rich storytelling. Its enduring popularity is reflected by its inclusion on the BBC’s list of the 100 Greatest Films of the 21st Century, cementing its place as a modern classic.

"Meet the Parents" stands out among Ben Stiller's finest films, known for its witty humor and memorable family situations. This iconic comedy has earned a special place in pop culture, delivering plenty of laughs and genuinely relatable moments.

At the heart of the story is Gaylord Focker, a well-meaning yet anxious nurse who heads to Long Island to meet his fiancée’s family. What begins as an innocent introduction spirals into a series of cringeworthy and hilarious setbacks, making every encounter more entertaining than the last.

The film's stellar cast features Robert De Niro, Owen Wilson, Blythe Danner, and Ben Stiller, each contributing to a dynamic and perfectly timed comedic ensemble.

De Niro shines as the intimidating ex-CIA agent and protective father, while Stiller's depiction of a man grappling with relentless scrutiny is both funny and endearing.

Upon its release, "Meet the Parents" became a massive box office hit, grossing over $300 million globally and solidifying its status as a comedy classic.

"While We’re Young" is a sharp comedy-drama starring Ben Stiller, Naomi Watts, Amanda Seyfried, and Adam Driver. The film centers on Josh Srebnick (Stiller), a middle-aged documentary filmmaker in New York, and his wife Cornelia (Watts) as they strike up an unlikely friendship with a free-spirited younger couple, Jamie (Driver) and Darby Massey (Seyfried).

Written, directed, and produced by Noah Baumbach, the film captures generational clashes and self-discovery with wit and insight. It became Baumbach’s highest-grossing film in the U.S., earning both critical acclaim and box office success.

"There’s Something About Mary" is a beloved American romantic comedy starring Ben Stiller, Cameron Diaz, Lee Evans, Chris Elliott, and Matt Dillon.

The plot centers on several men who become humorously obsessed with Mary, with each suitor embarking on outrageous and memorable antics to win her heart.

This film marked a pivotal moment in Ben Stiller’s career, solidifying his reputation as a top comedic actor. Directed by the Farrelly brothers, it remains one of their most significant hits—a level of success that proved hard to surpass in their later films.

In recognition of its comedic brilliance and lasting influence, readers of Total Film magazine ranked it the fourth-greatest comedy ever made in 2000, underscoring its enduring charm and cultural impact.

"Tropic Thunder" (2008) stands out for its stellar ensemble cast, which includes Ben Stiller, Robert Downey Jr., and Tom Cruise. Downey Jr.'s controversial yet acclaimed portrayal adds layers to the film, while Cruise injects unexpected humor as an outrageous, bald, loud-mouthed Hollywood executive.

The cast is further strengthened by memorable roles from Bill Hader, Matthew McConaughey, and Danny McBride. The story humorously follows a group of pampered Hollywood actors who, while shooting a war movie, are thrust into a real jungle conflict that tests their acting skills and survival instincts.

With a global box office of over $195 million, "Tropic Thunder" was a commercial smash, premiering at number one in the U.S. and holding that top spot for three straight weeks, solidifying its status as a comedy classic.

"Brad's Status" (2017) is an engaging and introspective comedy-drama that stands out for its honest exploration of self-worth and personal fulfillment. Starring Ben Stiller alongside Austin Abrams and Jenna Fischer, and directed by Mike White, the film delivers nuanced performances throughout its 1 hour and 42 minute runtime.

The narrative follows Brad Sloan, a non-profit worker who leads a seemingly comfortable life with his wife and son. Yet, beneath the surface, Brad struggles with persistent feelings of inadequacy as he compares himself to his more successful friends from college.

Despite reassurances from his supportive wife, Brad finds it difficult to shake off his self-doubt. When he embarks on a college tour in Boston with his son Troy, Brad is forced to confront his aspirations and reflect on what truly matters in life.

During their journey, Brad begins to realize that the lives of those he once envied may not be as perfect as they appear. This revelation compels him to reconsider his definitions of success and happiness, ultimately leading to personal growth and a deeper appreciation for his own path.

Greenberg may not have dominated the box office, but its thoughtful narrative and critical success make it a compelling choice for fans of smart, character-driven films.

This comedy-drama boasts a remarkable ensemble cast, with Ben Stiller joined by Jennifer Jason Leigh, Rhys Ifans, Brie Larson, and Greta Gerwig, each delivering nuanced performances.

The story follows Roger Greenberg, a native of Los Angeles who after living in New York, returns to his hometown to reassess his life’s direction and confront his personal struggles.

While house-sitting for his brother, Roger embarks on an unexpected emotional journey, forming a bond with his brother’s assistant. Helmed by director Noah Baumbach—renowned for his authentic filmmaking—Greenberg stands out as a film well worth your time.

"Your Friends & Neighbors" (1998) delivers a sharp, biting dark comedy with a stellar ensemble cast featuring Ben Stiller, Aaron Eckhart, Catherine Keener, Amy Brenneman, Jason Patric, and Nastassja Kinski.

Set in a nondescript American city, the film unravels the tangled and sometimes toxic relationships of two dissatisfied middle-class couples. Through their personal turmoil, the characters grapple with betrayal, secrets, and their own missed chances at happiness.

Although its theatrical release was limited, "Your Friends & Neighbors" gained notable placement in cinema history, becoming the very first movie ever reviewed on Rotten Tomatoes.

"Megamind" (2010) offers a clever and comedic twist on the traditional superhero narrative. The story centers on the supervillain Megamind, expertly voiced by Will Ferrell, who finally defeats his longtime adversary, Metro Man. However, with triumph comes emptiness, leading Megamind to create a new hero, Hal, who unexpectedly turns evil.

To win the affection of his love interest, Megamind disguises himself as Bernard, a character voiced by Ben Stiller. Yet, Hal's unpredictable transformation challenges Megamind to reconsider his choices, ultimately inspiring him to embrace his heroic potential and fight to save the city.

"Megamind" performed well at the box office, grossing over $321 million worldwide against a $130 million budget. The film was praised for its sharp humor, impressive animation, and playful parody of superhero tropes.

Although Ben Stiller's screen time in the film is limited, his memorable cameo adds to the fun. Because of his minor role, though, "Megamind" ranks lower among Ben Stiller's top movie performances.

"Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy" (2004) is a mockumentary-style comedy set in the world of 1970s San Diego television news. Will Ferrell stars as Ron Burgundy, a hilariously egotistical and overtly sexist anchorman whose status is shaken by new changes at the station.

The arrival of Veronica Corningstone (Christina Applegate), the channel's first female co-anchor, threatens Ron's hold on his newsroom. Ben Stiller makes a memorable appearance as Arturo Mendes, a flamboyant, Spanish-speaking news anchor.

Stiller's character parodies exaggerated Latino TV personalities and stands as one of Ron Burgundy's main professional rivals, heightening the film's absurd humor and sharp satire of newsroom culture.

Though his role is brief, Stiller's performance adds another layer to the movie's comedic tone. The film was both a critical and commercial hit, gaining cult-classic status thanks to its memorable one-liners and over-the-top slapstick.

"Reality Bites" stands as an influential American romantic comedy that signaled Ben Stiller’s debut as a director. Led by standout performances from Winona Ryder and Ethan Hawke, with Stiller himself taking on a major role, the film also features memorable appearances by Steve Zahn and Janeane Garofalo.

At its heart, the story follows Lelaina (Ryder), a young videographer capturing the uncertain lives of her close group of friends as they navigate the turbulence of adulthood. Through Lelaina’s lens, the film thoughtfully examines themes like ambition, uncertainty, and the emotional trials of post-college existence.

"Reality Bites" authentically reflects the struggles and lifestyle choices characteristic of Generation X, delivering an honest portrayal of a generation searching for direction. Its impact is amplified by the nuanced exploration of friendship and personal growth during uncertain times.

With a box office gross of $40.9 million against an $11.5 million budget, the film became a commercial success. Over the years, it has gained cult status for its sharp insights into early ’90s grunge culture and continues to resonate with viewers seeking a genuine portrayal of young adulthood.

"Dodgeball: A True Underdog Story" (2004) delivers a riotous sports comedy experience, pitting Ben Stiller against Vince Vaughn in an unforgettable battle of wits and slapstick on the dodgeball court. Stiller’s outrageous villain is matched only by the film’s sharp humor and fast-paced antics.

The story centers on a lovably eccentric team of underdogs who unite to compete in a high-stakes dodgeball tournament held in Las Vegas. Their mission is both heartfelt and comedic: to rescue their cherished local gym from the clutches of a ruthless corporate chain.

With its perfect blend of witty satire and mainstream fun, "Dodgeball" earned both critical and commercial success. The film raked in $168.4 million globally on a $20 million budget, cementing its status as a modern comedy classic.

"Zoolander" is an outrageous and wildly entertaining American comedy directed by and starring Ben Stiller. Boasting an all-star ensemble that includes Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, Milla Jovovich, Christine Taylor, Jon Voight, and Ben's father Jerry Stiller, the film is packed with memorable performances and sharp satire.

Stiller takes on the role of Derek Zoolander, a dim-witted but lovable male supermodel who has won the VH1 Male Model of the Year award three times. When his longtime rival Hansel unexpectedly snags the title, Derek’s confidence is shattered, sending his life into a hilarious downward spiral.

With his friendships faltering, his relationship with his father strained, and his own self-worth at an all-time low, Derek begins to question if modeling is really his path. Vulnerable and searching for purpose, he unwittingly becomes entangled in an absurd conspiracy masterminded by the eccentric fashion mogul Mugatu (Will Ferrell).

Under the pretense of a career-saving opportunity, Mugatu brainwashes Derek, recruiting him in a farcical plot to assassinate the Prime Minister of Malaysia. This ridiculous setup propels Derek on a comedy-filled journey of self-discovery, wild antics, and redemption as he tries to reclaim his place in the fashion world.

"Tower Heist" is a dynamic heist comedy built on a story by Bill Collage, Griffin, and Adam Cooper. The film stars an impressive ensemble, including Ben Stiller, Eddie Murphy, Casey Affleck, Matthew Broderick, Alan Alda, Michael Peña, Judd Hirsch, Téa Leoni, and Gabourey Sidibe.

The story follows a group of employees from a luxury high-rise who discover that their life savings have been stolen in a Ponzi scheme orchestrated by a deceitful Wall Street tycoon.

Determined to reclaim what was taken from them, they band together with an ex-con, a financially ruined businessman, and a resourceful maid, plotting to break into the tycoon's elite penthouse and recover their money—all while evading the watchful eyes of the FBI.

Though the film achieved moderate success at the box office, some critics found the plot to be somewhat hurried and overly complex. Nevertheless, "Tower Heist" delivers laughs and suspense in equal measure.

Madagascar (2005) is a vibrant and comedic animated film directed by Eric Darnell and Tom McGrath. With a runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes, this adventure features dynamic voice performances from Ben Stiller, Chris Rock, and David Schwimmer, who bring the beloved animal characters to life in unforgettable ways.

The story centers on Marty, a spirited zebra living in New York’s Central Park Zoo, who dreams of experiencing life beyond the confines of his enclosure. Driven by his yearning for freedom, Marty makes a bold escape on his tenth birthday, eager to discover the wild world outside.

When Marty disappears, his loyal friends Alex the lion, Gloria the hippo, and Melman the giraffe embark on a daring mission to rescue him. Their journey quickly spirals out of control, leading to a chaotic adventure that leaves them stranded on the fantastical island of Madagascar.

As the friends confront the joys and challenges of their newfound freedom, they are forced to rethink what home and friendship really mean—making Madagascar a heartwarming and witty tale for viewers of all ages.

"Starsky & Hutch" is a buddy cop action film starring Ben Stiller as David Starsky and Owen Wilson as Ken 'Hutch' Hutchinson. Together, they bring the beloved characters from the classic 1970s television series to life.

Set in a fictionalized Bay City, California, the story follows these two street-smart undercover detectives as they team up with underworld informant Huggy Bear to take down dangerous drug criminals.

The film received a mix of positive and average reviews from critics, but proved to be a commercial success, earning $170 million worldwide against a $60 million budget.

"The Secret Life of Walter Mitty" (2013) is a captivating modern adaptation of James Thurber’s renowned 1939 short story. The film refreshes the timeless narrative with contemporary flair and heartfelt storytelling.

Ben Stiller shines both as director and star, brilliantly embodying Walter Mitty—a reserved, daydreaming photo manager at Life magazine. Yearning for adventure beyond his mundane routine, Walter embarks on a breathtaking global quest to locate a missing photo negative, blurring the lines between fantasy and reality.

The film’s uplifting message and visual spectacle resonated with audiences, leading to significant global box office success with $188 million earned worldwide.

Critically acclaimed, it was honored by the National Board of Review, making their exclusive list of the top ten films of 2013.

Permanent Midnight is a gripping independent drama featuring a standout ensemble cast, including Ben Stiller in the lead role alongside Elizabeth Hurley, Owen Wilson, Janeane Garofalo, and Cheryl Ladd.

This film adapts Jerry Stahl’s autobiographical memoir, chronicling the tumultuous journey of Stahl—a successful television writer behind iconic shows like Twin Peaks, thirtysomething, and ALF—as he grapples with addiction while navigating the heights of his career.

Though its limited theatrical release yielded only modest box office returns, with $1.1 million, Permanent Midnight gained a devoted following on home video. Critics particularly praised Stiller’s intense, transformative performance in this raw and unforgettable portrait of creative brilliance and personal struggle.

"Night at the Museum" (2006) is a delightful fantasy-comedy inspired by Milan Trenc's 1993 children’s book of the same name. The story brings magic and humor to the big screen, captivating audiences of all ages.

Ben Stiller shines as Larry Daley, a divorced father who becomes the night watchman at New York’s American Museum of Natural History. To his astonishment, he soon discovers that the museum’s exhibits magically come to life after dark, launching him into wild and hilarious adventures.

Despite receiving mixed critical reviews, the film was a massive box office hit, earning $574.5 million worldwide and ranking as the fifth highest-grossing film of 2006.

The stellar cast includes Robin Williams, Dick Van Dyke, Carla Gugino, and Mickey Rooney. The film’s success led to two popular sequels: "Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian" and "Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb."

Duplex, which was released in Ireland and the United Kingdom as Our House and as The Old Lady Must Go in Poland is a black comedy that was both directed and narrated by Danny DeVito.

Barring Stiller, the film also stars Drew Barrymore, Harvey Fierstein, James Remar, Eileen Essell, and Justin Theroux. The film is about a couple that has moved into a new house wherein their peace gets disturbed by the constant annoyance of the old lady living upstairs.

They decide to take some desperate measures when her habits begin to get a little too out of hand.

The film was a major dud at the box office, grossing only $19.3 million for a $40 million budget.

"Meet the Fockers" is a hilarious American comedy and the follow-up to "Meet the Parents." This star-studded film features Ben Stiller, Robert De Niro (who also produced), Dustin Hoffman, Barbra Streisand, Owen Wilson, Teri Polo, and Blythe Danner.

The story dives into the uproarious first meeting between the uptight Byrnes family and the eccentric Fockers, resulting in laugh-out-loud chaos. With its sharp wit and standout performances, the film became a massive box office success, earning $522 million and leading to a third installment, "Little Fockers."

Zero Effect is an American mystery comedy that was released in 1998 and was director Jake Kasdan’s feature directorial debut.

The film stars Bill Pullman in the role of ‘the world’s most private detective’ named Daryl Zero and Stiller in the role of his assistant Steve Arlo.

The plot of the film is loosely based on Arthur Conan Doyle’s short story titled ‘A Scandal in Bohemia.

It was shot in Portland, Oregon, and was screened at the Un Certain Regard section of the 1998 Cannes.

The film failed to perform well at the box office, managing just $2 million to a budget of $5 million.

"Along Came Polly" is a delightful romantic comedy featuring Ben Stiller alongside the charismatic Jennifer Aniston. The film follows Reuben Feffer, whose predictable life is turned upside down when he reconnects with Polly, an adventurous old classmate.

As Reuben finds himself falling for Polly, his world is further disrupted by the sudden return of his ex-wife Lisa, who seeks to win him back and adds another layer of chaos to his life.

Despite receiving mixed reviews from critics, the film proved to be a significant box office hit, earning $178 million worldwide on a $42 million budget.

Envy is a dark comedy buddy film, that stars Jack Black alongside Ben Stiller in the main roles and has Rachel Weisz, Christopher Walken, and Amy Poehler in supporting roles.

The film was both a critical and a commercial failure, having a budget of around $20-$40 million but grossing only around $14 million.

The film is about a man, Tim Dingman (Stiller) who becomes extremely jealous of his friend, Nick Vanderpark's (Black) newfound success.

The film not only got negative reviews from critics but even rated 3.11/10 on Rotten Tomatoes and Stiller was also nominated for a Razzie Award, for Worst Actor.